The Fresh Look Editing 5 for February 2022
This February marks three years since I launched my business, Fresh Look Editing. While I still consider myself a fairly new kid on the freelancing block, I have learned a lot about the world of editing and how to survive as an independent professional. I’ve had a lot of people who are considering getting into editing ask for advice on how to get started, and what my experience with the profession has been like. So, to celebrate my business anniversary, here are five things I think every editor new to freelancing should know.
1. Embrace training
One of the questions I’ve heard most frequently from newcomers to freelance is whether formal training is needed to become an editor. My standard answer is “it depends.” Like most things in life, there are many paths to this profession. Many editors come to editing after careers in completely different fields; some have always been immersed in the written word but worked in other areas in the world of publishing or communications.
I don’t think there’s a “right” way to become an editor, but a commitment to ongoing training is necessary. Remember that education comes in many forms — not just in degrees or certificates, but in seeking professional development (courses, conferences, and the like) as you progress through your career. Language changes, techniques evolve, and it’s critical we keep current to serve our clients best.
2. Make no mistake — you are a business
There is debate whether the term “freelancer” gives a connotation of being too casual or whether it may lead to clients not seeing you as a professional (read: expecting to pay less) when setting out on your own. Some editors steer clear of calling themselves freelancers for these reasons and opt for different titles, such as consultants, independents, or owners. I believe everyone has to do what is right for them.
Regardless of how you choose to identify yourself, once you put your name out there to be hired for editing services, you’re conducting business, whether it’s a side gig or a full-time job. Editors choose to present what they have to offer in a variety of ways, but the hallmark of a professional is to take the job seriously and conduct it with knowledge and respect for the craft, for clients, and for themselves.
3. You need a network
Many editors get into freelancing because of the allure of being their own boss and the ability to define success on their own terms. But what happens when your office of one starts to get lonely? Working solo can be an isolating experience, especially now when face-to-face social interactions aren’t what they used to be. That’s where establishing a network of trusted colleagues comes in.
If you’re fond of social media, seek groups and/or hashtags editors follow (on Twitter, #AmEditing, #EFAchat, and #ACESchat are great places to find fellow editors and participate in discussions about language and the editorial process). Join an editing organization, such as ACES: The Society for Editing, the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP), Editors Canada, or the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA). Volunteer for your local chapter. If you’re completing an editing course, exchange contact information with fellow students. Whatever you do, ensure you make and maintain these vital connections for your professional and mental health.
4. The ebbs and flows are real
Something absolutely critical to learn about working independently as an editor, or any freelance professional, is that work comes in seasons. Seeds you plant today may not flower until tomorrow…or next month…or next year. Many editors are fortunate to have steady streams of work, but even the well-established among us have scheduling gaps. Perhaps a client cancels and a project falls through. Maybe you have a family emergency and can’t accept work for an unanticipated period of time.
Perhaps a pandemic comes along and turns life as we know it upside down.
Although there are ways to manage the feast or famine cycles, individuals new to the field must be prepared to weather the storms inherent to making it on our own. It can be challenging to feel like hard work is going unnoticed, or our efforts aren’t yielding the amount of work we’d like. Don’t be discouraged. Remember you aren’t alone in feeling this way and do your best to persist. Storms do pass.
5. Stand up for your value
“What do I charge?” is a frequent question for editors. There are no easy answers to this, but my biggest advice to newcomers who ask is this — don’t be afraid to ask for fair compensation for your services. We all bring different levels of expertise and experience to the table. It can be downright scary to share what you charge with a particular client, especially as you’re finding your footing.
Some may think charging rock bottom prices for services is a good way to bring in clients. However, undervaluing your skills and what to charge for them is damaging. Not only do you risk setting a precedent with clients that may be hard to leave behind (or, attracting those who don’t truly understand the value of professional editing), you’re also in danger of killing your own morale by working your tail off for very little compensation. Neither is helpful for getting off the ground. Talk to other editors, research the industries you want to work in, and be truthful with yourself — what do you need to earn to truly value your competencies and your time?
If you do decide to take the plunge and step into the world of freelance editing, congratulations and welcome to the community! The decision to forge your own path is an exciting one. Once you get started, I think you’ll be glad you did.
What do you wish you’d known before starting out? Share your thoughts using the hashtag #FreshLookEdit5.
PHOTO CREDIT: Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash